Feminism for Women
“Feminism for Women” is a bold exploration of the feminist movement’s primary goal: liberating women from the confines of patriarchy. The book emphasizes the importance of confronting and eradicating male violence against women and girls. Authored by Julie Bindel, a feminist with over 40 years of activism, the book challenges the notion that feminism should prioritize other issues over women’s liberation. Bindel questions why, despite women comprising half of the global population, feminism is still marginalized as a minor movement.
The book delves into critical questions and myths about feminism, such as whether women desire the same privileges as men, if men can be feminists, and if sexual exploitation can be liberating for women. Through her extensive experience and interviews with influential figures like Gloria Steinem and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Bindel examines the progress feminism has made and dispels misconceptions that second-wave feminism is outdated.
Bindel addresses pressing issues such as pornography, sexual violence, and prostitution. She draws on her own experiences and countless interviews with women and girls from diverse backgrounds, providing a clear-eyed perspective on why feminism is a vital social movement benefiting all women. This book is a powerful call to action, urging women to reclaim feminism and fight collectively against misogyny.
The Pimping of Prostitution: Abolishing the Sex Work Myth
In “The Pimping of Prostitution,” Julie Bindel takes a hard look at the realities of prostitution, countering the dominant narratives found in academic and liberal feminist circles. Drawing on over 250 interviews with individuals involved in the sex trade, including trafficked women, legal brothel owners, and sex buyers, Bindel exposes the falsehoods and criminality that pervade this global industry. The book offers a pathway for activists advocating for the abolition of what Bindel describes as ‘the oldest oppression.’
Over two years, Bindel visited nearly 40 countries, exploring brothels and engaging with various stakeholders, from survivors of the sex trade to those profiting from it. Her findings challenge popular ideas about agency and choice in prostitution, revealing the harsh realities faced by the majority involved.
The book highlights the emergence of a survivor-led abolitionist movement and calls for a reevaluation of policies, urging policymakers, politicians, and international human rights organizations to hold sex buyers accountable and genuinely fight for women’s rights.
Reviews:
- “The Pimping of Prostitution” is an essential addition to the debate on the sex trade, offering a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard. — Orlando Crowcroft, Newsweek
- “A sobering achievement.” — Bidisha, Times Literary Supplement
- “A refreshing contrast to the conjectural and unsubstantiated claims prevalent in much of the literature on prostitution.” — Roger Matthews, University of Kent
Endorsements:
- “Julie Bindel exposes the truth behind the global sex trade’s ‘Pretty Woman’ myths. Her research is powerful, thorough, and irrefutable.” — Gloria Steinem
- “A comprehensive, authoritative, and emotionally charged critique of the sex trade. Bindel’s work is indispensable.” — Janice Turner, Times Newspaper columnist
Straight Expectations – What Does It Mean to Be Gay Today?
“Straight Expectations” by Julie Bindel explores the changes in the gay community over the past four decades, questioning whether the fight for rights like same-sex marriage has led to true progress. Drawing on extensive research and interviews with various experts, the book examines shifting attitudes towards sexuality and considers the commonalities between lesbians and gay men.
Exiting Prostitution – A Study in Female Desistance (Co-author)
Based on a three-year research study, this book explores how women exit the sex trade and the challenges they face. The research, conducted in partnership with Eaves and London South Bank University, provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of support interventions and the experiences of women in prostitution.
The Map of My Life – The Story of Emma Humphreys (Co-author)
This book chronicles the life of Emma Humphreys, who was imprisoned at 17 for murder and later released, changing the law for battered women who kill. Through Emma’s writings, the book tells the story of her struggles and triumphs, highlighting her impact on the fight for justice.